Remaining Hopeful
Cecil Shorts has not slowed down this season as he is on pace for a 1,000 yard season
Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE
The season always starts off hopeful, as every new Sunday is a chance to learn and grow into another winning or losing season. The Jags started off hopeful as their team featured new receivers and coaches, a coached up quarterback in Blaine Gabbert, and a dominant defense coming back for round two in year two.The season has not gone anywhere near expectations, but there are players that have far exceeded those expectations.
The first to exceed expectations is Bryan Anger, who was thought of being a ridiculous pick up as a third round draft pick. Anger has proved time and time again that he gives the defense advantages in field position by averaging 48.4 yards a punt, 7th in the league. He also made a play last week which further proved his worth, by preventing a kick return for a touchdown with a solo tackle. The ensuing play lead to a Paul Posluszny interception.
The next player is Russell Allen, who has patched the outside linebacker position beautifully, and now even leads the team in tackles with Posluszny at 85 a piece. Until this season, Allen has been a career backup, but since starting he has not played well but claimed his spot. While Allen hasn’t provided turnovers, he has been a solid player for the defense who will be relied on if Clint Session and Daryl Smith cannot play due to injuries and or being re-signed.
The last player who has provided the most impact is none other than Cecil Shorts III. Shorts has provided the offense with the ability to stretch the field and provide a go to target all season, a complete flip from last years two receptions for 30 yards on 30 targets. With the help of Shorts, not having Jones-Drew seems like less of a problem considering the offense can now get points on the board through the air. However, it still hasn’t been enough as the Jaguars stand at a 1-9 record only above the last-place Kansas City Chiefs in pride.
The Jaguars will finish with a high draft pick once again this year as the enter their 19th season in 2013. Expectations will not be high as the team has not been good for the past few years, but we should always remain hopeful for any given Sunday is another chance to win.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
– Antonio Furgiuele